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From Professor JLlstout (-^dlnbnrgli ITniversitir* Elm Cottagb West, Whitb Housb Gabdins, ) Edinburgh, 16th April, 1857. i Dbab Sib, I beg to acknowledge the receipt yesterday of your note of the 18th inst., and the enclosed copies ortwo certificates, in regard to your fitness lor the office of Professor of Heorew, &c., in Queen's College, Canada. The class certificate which you received rrom me for your attendance on the Senior Hebrew in the College here in Session 1852-'S, should testify to the distinction with which ypur studies were prosecuted during the time you were under my instruction. You were awarded a prize for proficiency, and read Arabic with approbation, as extra study ; whilst your appearances in the Class were always such as to impress me with the idea of the accuracy, as well as fulness of your knowledge in the subjects of your studies. Tour acquirements in the Oriental Languages, I have no hesitation in ex- pressing an opinion, are quite sufficient to qualify you for the office which you seek, so far as this branch of learning is concerned, which combined with your practical acquaintance in the art of imparting knowledge, must render you well qualified for the situation. With every good wish for your success in the ob- ject of your pursuit, I remain. Dear sir. Very truly joars, D. LISTON. From Dr. Reidf Of Hu Edinburgh, ItutUution, EUl Strut, Edinburgh. EoiMBCBoa, Dbcbmbbb 27, 1848. I HATB the utmos* confidence in recommending Mr. John E. Rae as a Teacher of the Toung. He officiated as my assistant in the Circus Place School for several years, with great acceptance both to his pupils and to their parent* ; and, during a recent illness, which laid me aside from my professional duties for six weeks, he conducted my public and private classes to my entire aatif- fiMtion. Mr. Rae teachei bines firmness wi ledge with readiii they read, and, w position, to expre cations, combined to make his servic To the foregoini has had charge of preparation of the German, Latin, Gi satisfaction, and t< also been looking Mr. Rae's assistani In this expectatiot] tion; but I do not responsible, and h< which I believe hii I HAVE for man> and have marked w a teacher. He is possessed o fections, and at the various acquiremei may occupy their Teacher of^English, connected. From what I kno all his friends can r that he will realize i I now beg to add Mr. J. E. Rae, as j period profited by sexes to proper sut him well qualified Select Academ Mb. John E. Ra •t my Academy, an could have dischan tion of the parents Mr. Roe teaches with rigour and judgment, and in managing a class, com- bines firmness with kindness. He is well informed, and communicates know- ledge with readiness. He teaches hia pupils to lead well, to understand what they read, and, when they are sufficiently advanced to practise English Com- position, to express their thoughts with accuracy and taste. All these qualifi- cations, combined with his experience in public and private tution, cannot fail to make his services as a teacher of English an acquisition to any School. 67 NoBTHnUBERLAND StBUT, February 4, 1853. To the foregoing Testimonial, I have to add, that since October last Mr. Rae has had charge of my boiirdors in the evening, and has assisted them in the preparation of their lessons in Knglish Literature, History, Geography, French, Qerman, Latin, Greek, and Mathematics, which he has done entirely to my satisfaction, and to the manifest improvement of the young gentlemen. I have also been looking forward with no little expectation to having the benefit of Ur. Rae's assistance in the Edinburgh Institution after the beginning of March. In this expectation I shall be disappointed if he succeed in bis present applica- tion; but I do not the less wish hiin success on that account ; because, useful, responsible, and honorable as the situation is to which he aspires, it is one for which I believe him to be eminently qualified. ALEX. REID. From Aiidren' ITIus^ravei Esq.* Sector o/the Circus Place School. Edinbcrgb, 28th Dbcehber, 1848. I HATE for man) years been intimately acquainted with Mr. John E. Rae, and have marked wi^h very great pleasure his progress, both as a student and a teacher. He is possessed of that manner (a somewhat rare one) which engages the .f- fections, and at the same time stimulates the exertions of his pupils, while t various acquirements assist him in throwing light upon everv subject that may occupy their milids. I am persuaded that he will hold, as a Teacher of^English, a high position in any Academy with which he may be connected. From what I know of him in all the relations of life, he is a gentleman whom •11 his friends can recommend with full confidence ; they being aware, as I am, that he will realize all that it is hoped of him in after lire. Gibuds Place School, EniNBnaoH, Feb. 6. 1858. I now beg to add to my former testimonial of 1848, that my impression of Mr. J. E. Rae, as a teacher, has been fully confirmed ; that he has since that period profited by his experience ; that he has directed older pupils of both sexes to proper subjects for improving their mental powers ; and that I think him well qualified for the situation of Hector of the Normal School. ANDREW MUSGRAVB. From ITIrs. Mnclair} SeUet Academy for Young Ladiet, 57 Great Smff Street, Edmburgh. EciNBnRGH, 29th Decbmbeb, 1848. Mr. John E. Rai has been for five years engaged as Head English Master at my Academy, and I have the greatest pleasure in stating that no master could have discharged the duties more efficiently, and to the perfect satisfac- tion of tiie parents and friends of the numerous young Udles he baa instruoted. I I consider Hr. Rae a teacher of the highest ability, combining the happT art of interesting his pupils in their studies, and at the same time gaining their esteem and regard. It will be with sincere regret I shall part with him, but he must carry with him the best wishes and regards of both nis employers and pupils, and I most sincerely hope ho will meet with that success and prosperity which he so highly merits. ARABELLA SINCLAIB. From Dr. Adam Hnater* 18 Abirobohbt Placi, EsiXBusaB, 29th DiCBMBBB, 1848. It affords me very sincere pleasvre to bear mr humble testimonr in faror ot Mr. John B. Rae as a candidate for the office of English master of tne Academy of Dumfries. This step I take on well-grounded principles, as I hare known Mr. Rae for many years past in his capacity of private tutor^ the duties of which he ap* peared to me to discharge with so much zeal and judgment, that I was led to request, and considered myself fortunate when I secured, his valuable services tor the private tution of my son during this winter. As one of the Directors of the Circus Place School of Edinburgh, I also know that Mr. Rae has had the important duties of the Rector's classes de> volved upon him, during the severe illness of his friend Dr. Reid ; and in the discharge of these duties, I believe Mr. Rae has exhibited much talent and practical experience as a teacher. On the whole, I beg to state it as my opinion, that Mr. Rae possesses talents of the highest order, exhibits much zeal and un- wearied patience in directing the young mind, along with which there is com- bined such an amount of practical experience as a teacher, as eminently qualify liim for the office to which he aspires. ADAM HUNTER, M. D. From Miss Williamson^ Z a diet* Ettailiahment, 3anff<, BANvr, 8rd Fbbbuabt, 1858> Mk. John E. Rab was engaged for upwards of two years as Teacher of Eng>' lish Literature, Elocution, Geography and Composition in my Establishment, and I have great pleasure in expressing my satisfaction with the manner in which he fulfilled the duties of his situation, and in bearing testimony to the rapid progress which the young ladies made under his tution. 1 consider him highly qualified by his abilities and information, to afford in- struction in the various branches referred to, and his method of teaching is well calculated to facilitate the acquisition of knowledge by hia pupils. With great kindness of manner, and exemplary patience, he combines proper firmness and decision, and while in my Establishment, he shewed himself a most conscientious and painstaking teacher, earnestly desirous not only for the intellectual advancement, but also for the moral and religious improvement of his pupils. MARY WILLIAMSON. From mir. Jas, Bnmst Teacher* Circus Place Scbool. EDiNBURaB, 29th December, 1848. I have much pleasure in stating, that I have known Mr. John E. Rae for a considerable period. He acted as my assistant in Circus Place School for somt timo, and I was highly pleased with the manner in which he discharged hit duties. He has good talents, and an tzoellent aceent, and his mannsra an pleasing and g( sessos those hab and acquiremeni I therefore cc which he is now Mr. John E. Ri of years, and froi ^ung man of ex His appearance ai person exceeding may be called to 1 FromtlK I was introduce brother's inductio; him frequently, be cesions Mr. Raeci ▼ariety of topics o some of these my ( mate of his. But with his ripejudiri his ready eldqueni teacher, he has hi character ; and the cations in this di his high mental p I would, on public the I'diuburgh Noi rass for that impoi . With Mr. John m my immediate i urn often, and to b I have formed the iBinments— espeoii •rature. In that c oationary training one occasion, out •sot which he man Mndidate for a pai mention, that it is appointment of r we year. 185S« ,1848. pleasine and gentlemanly. As a teacher he is actire and energetic, and pos- Besses those habits of order and industrioua application, without which talents and acquirements are rain. I therefore consider Mr. Rae as admirably qualified for the situation for which he is now a candidate, and I shall rejoice to hear of his success. JAMES BURNS. From tke Rev. John MnnaiFy Jlinuter of Morton. Morton Mansi, 80th December, 1848. Mr. John E. Bae, a natiro of this parish, has been known to me for a number of years, and from all that I have seen and heard of him, I believe him to be a young man of excellent talents, varied accomplishments, and good character. His appearance and manners are both in his favour; and I should think him a person exceedinglv likely to give much satisfaction in any situation which he may be called to nil as an instructor of youth. JOHN MURRAT. From the Rev* A* M'Nanghtoii} D.D., Lesmahagow* Mansi or LiSMABAaow, 4th February, 1858. I was introduced to Mr. John E. Rae about three years ago, on the day of his brother's induction into the parish of Avondale, and since that time 1 have met him frequently, both in his brother's manse and in mv own. On all these oc- cesions Mr. Rae conversed with me very frankly and unreservedly on a vast variety of topics connected with theology, science, and general literature. On some of these my own knowledge was too superficial to form an accurate esti- mate of his. But on such of them as I had fully studied, I was much struck with his ripe judgment, his acute discrimination, his wide range of reading, and his ready eloquence in embodying his ideas in appropriate language. As a teacher, he has had much experience in more than one seminary of a hi^ character; and though I cannot from personal knowledge speak of his qualm* cations in this department, I understand that they every way correspond to his high mental jpowers and extensive acquirements. In these circumntances, I would, on public as well as private grounds, rejoice to see him at the head of the I'diuburgh Normal Institution ; and I wish him every success in his can- vass for that important and responsible office. ALLAN M'NAUGHTON, D.D., IRnitter qf Zetnu^iagrow, I. Charjfe. From the Rev* H. Dewar, Stonnhonse* Stonibouss Mansi, 4th February, 1868. With Mr. John E. Rae I am well and intimately acquainted. Having lived in my immediate neighbourhood a g^reat part of last year, 1 had occasion to see him often, and to have him much with me. The result of this intimacy is, that I have formed the very hiehest opinion both of his talents and also of his at- tainments — especially of his attainments as a scholar, as well as in general lit- wature. In that department of scholarship which stands oonneotad with edu- eationary training, 1 have met with few that are his equals. I remember well one occasion, on which I listened with the greatest delight to the skill and tact which he manifested in examining a young man on his qualifications as a eandidate for a parochial school. The result was most successful. I may also mention, that it is to him I am in a great measure indebted for a very excellent appointment of the kind which took place in my own pariah in the conne of toe year. •lit. i'} -U. ^ 8 Besides being an accomplished scholar himself, and an excellent judge of ■oholarship in others, Mr. Rae is in every war a most agreeable person to meet with in private life ; and as for his general aeportment, it is, so far as I have erer heard, exactly what becomns him as a teacher of youth and a student in divinity. ' HUGH DEWAR, Minitter of Stonehouit. From the Rev. David Smithy Minister, Tillicoultry, near AUoa. TiLLiconLTBT Mansk, 29th Dboimbbb, 1848. I HBRiBT certify that I have known Mr. John E. Rae from his boyhood, and have had the best opportunities of learning from the most satisfactory sources, what is the opinion entertained by the most competent judges of his talents and attainments. He was educated at the parish school of Morton, and even at a very early age manifested talents decidedly superior. He afterwards went to study in Edinburgh University, where his progress, I have reason to know, was highly creditable and satisfactory. He nas also for the last nine or ten J rears been employed in teaching, and with much success. Indeed, he has en- oyed greater advantages in this respect, than fall to the lot of young men from the country, having both had access to the classes, and taught for some years under the eye of Dr. Reid, the very able and respected Rector of Circus Place Institution. I therefore look upon Mr. Rae's quaiificatioDs as of quite a su- perior order; and possessir g as ho does, much acuteness and power, and daily witnessing for years past the best and most approved methods of teaching in Edinburgh, I am quite satisfied that a provincial Academy would be a great gainer by enjoying the services of one so thoroughly qualified. I may add, that he has always appeared to me to be possessed of amiable dis- positions, well calculated to win the affections, as he has firmness to secure the respect, of children. DAVID SMITH. From John Scott, Esq.) Lecturer on Natural Phiio8<^hy and MatTiematiet, Glatgow. Glasgow, 4th Fbbbuabt, 1853. It gives me great pleasure to testify to the talents and acq[uirements of Mr. John E. Rae. In addition to superior attainments in Ancient and Modem Literature, he has always sustained the character of an eminently successful teacher. But the relation in which we stood to each other as colleagues in the Banff Academy some years ago, enables me to speak with equal confidence of his amiable, obliging, and eentle disposition, combined with a strong sense of proprietv and gentlemanly feeling. Whilst together, I ever found him ready to sacrifice personal interest to the general well-being of the Institution, and the comfort of his colleagues ; ana the recollection of our united and har- monious exertions has ever since made rae cherish towards him sentiments of the strongest regard. I have repeatedly been present when Mr. Rae was con- ducting his classes, and in every instance the energy of his manner, clearness and simplicity of his illustrations, as well as the aptitude and proficiency of his pupils, shewed the singular power which he possesses, of communicating his own ideas to the minds of others. Besides, the natural firmness of his cnar- acter, quickness of perception, and habits of order, enable him to maintain the most perfect authority, softened with a mildness of manner, which gains the affection and secures the lasting esteem of those under his care. Mr. Rae's scholarship and extensive experience, his acquaintance with the different systems of tuition, and his uniformly cheerful and benevolent dispo- Bition, point him out as a gentleman remarkably well fitted to occupy the high- est plboe in one of the most distinguished of our Educational Institutions. JOHNSOOTT. Clatiieal Matter, . gm I BA7B been mu vacant Rectorship years has convinci post, and I shall b be proper to specil ol endowments. First, He has be riculum of study ii gow ; his honours and trustworthy P that I need not dw brougiit me into c Great Britain, I b ele^nt, and variec Secondly, He has in almost every de ilies whose sons w( he next acted as as became English Mi able and beneficial bency in Banff, I d to be the facts com to his appointment tion had reached a Rae succeeded in e increased, and the Mr. Rae saw it to I amid the deep regr TUrdly, As thie mitted to remark 1 aspires. With enl nence, and a wide unquestioned upri( kindliness of temp not fail to inspire : operations and ult enoes to which the hazard the predict cational Gommitte io confidently reci It gives me mul and superior atta becoming acquait, attending the Unl his fellow student sonal intercourse] dispositions, gent manners, apt to, log in his conver 9 > • From Alexander Richardson , Esq., Clatiical Muter, Patrick AcacUmt/, L'cturer on Logic in the AtTunoewn, Olat- gow, and Author ojteveral articles on Education. QLiisoow, 5th Febbuabt, 1858. I HATi been much pleased to hear that Mr. John E. Rae is a candidate for the Tacsnt Rectorship of the Edinburgh Normal School. An intimaej of thirteen years has convinced me of his qualifications for to arduous and responsible a post, and I shall be truly glad to find him successful in his application. It may be proper to specify some reasons for my high estimate of Mr. Uae's profession- al endowments. First, He has been a distinguished student fur an unusually lengthened cur- riculum of study in three Faculties in the Universities of Edinburgh and Glas- gow ; his honours in bis various classes will be duly attested by the eminent and trustworthy Professors, whose instructions he has dilgently improved, so that I need not dwell on this head. Although my own Professional auties have brought me into contact with many of the must ucoomplished Educationists of Great Britain, I have known none whose attainments were at once so high, elegant, and varied, as those of Mr. Rea. bewndly. He has reaped the fruits of a protracted and extensive experience in almost every department of tuition. Commencing as aprivate tutor in fam- ilies whose sons were attending the highest classes in the Edinburgh Academy, he next acted as assistant to Dr. Keid in the Circus Place School, and, lastly, became English Master in Banff Academy, where his career was most honour- able and beneficial. Owing to my residence in Aberdeen during his incum- bency in Banff, I deem it right to challenge special attention to what I know to be the facts connected with his labours in that ancient Inatitution. Prior to his appointment, the classes had greatly declined, and discipline and educa- tion baa reached a very low ebb. by his firmness, prudence, and ability, Mr. Raa succeeded in effecting an important change ; orcler was restored, the pii'iils increased, and the inhabitants rejoiced in the manifest improvements. When Mr. Rae saw it to be expedient to resume his Theological studies, he left Banff •mid the deep regret of the community. Thirdly, As this testimonial is written for a special purpose, I may be per- mitted to remark Mr Rae's peculiar fitness tor the promotion to which he aspires. With enlightened views of general education, great scholastic emi- nence, and a wide and well-tested experience, be combines great moral worth, unquestioned uprightness of character, uniform energy of action, unfeigned kindliness of temper, and that becoming dignity of demeanour which could not fail to inspire respect and attachment in the young men, whose prospective operations and ultimate success in life are so mainly determined by the influ- ences to which they are subjected in the Normal School. While I cannot hasard the prediction that Mr. Rae will fulfil all the requirements of the Edu- cational Committee, I can honestly declare that I know no man whom I could ■0 oonfidently recommend as an able, zealous, and conscientious Rector. A. RICHARDSON. From the Rev. G. Lang, Glamford. OiiAssroBD Mansb, 6th Fm., 1858. It gives me much pleasure to bear my testimony to the excellent character and superior attainments of Mr. John E. Rae. Since I had the happiness of becoming acquainted with him, I know that he distinguished himself while attending the University of Olasgow, and had several prizes award to him by his fellow students. For fully two years past, I have had a Kood deal of per- sonal mtercourse with him, and have found him possessed of the most amiable dispositions, gentle but firm, warm in his affections, kind and obliging in his manners, apt to, and happy in communicating instruction to the young, edify- ing in his conversation, systematical in his arrangements, imbued with deep B if'^! 10 piety, and exemplary in his deportment. I have the fullest confidence, that whatever department of Literature, Science, or Theology, he professes to teach, and may be called to undertake, he will give ample satisfaction to hii. •mployiera. GAVIN LANG, Minitter of OUurford, From William F. Imon, Eaq., Wttt End Acadtmjf, Abtrdeen. Abbbdun, 6th Fbb., 1858. It giresme much pleasure to bear testim«.ay to the rery high qualifications •f Mr. Rae, for conductine any Educational Establishment, to the direction and ■fuperintendence of which lie may be appointed. No one, I think, could hare any knowled^ ol Mr. Bae, without being con- vinced that his solid and extensive information, his a^eeable and gentlemanly manners, and his high moral integrity, must vr ''e him a popular and very efiScient teacher — and this opinion of Mr. Kae, .'ch I had long formed, has been corroborated by the testimony of those who ^j,ve had far more opportu- nities than I have been favored with, of forming a correct and decided judg- ment. Some of these are gentlemen who have Men for many years engaeed in teaching, while others who have been his pupils, have always spoken of him as one whose instructions had greatly benefited them, and whose religious and moral character had commanded their highest esteem. From gentlemen connected with him during an attendance at the KcBnbureh University, I understand that Mr. Rae was a hard and eminently suceessral student. WILLIAM F. LYON, From the Rev. Robert J. Johnstone, MinitUir of Mary Bill. Thx Mamsb, Mabt Hill, Fbb. Srd, 1858. The bearer, Mr. Bae, is, I understand, about to become a candidate for the situation of Rector in the Normal School of Edinburgh. I have the greatest pleasure in bearing my testimony to the high character and superior attain- ments of Mr. Bae as a gentleman and a scholar^ as also U> his peculiar fitness for the position to which he aspires. I have known Mr. Rae for ten ye&rs, Asastudent of the University of Edinburgh, he evinced his superiority in every class that he attended. His acquaintance with the languages, ancient and modem, is thorough and accurate. He has talents of the highest order. These have been cultivated by their successful application to those pereuita that have engaged the attention of scholars and men of science. As to his power of oommunioatinir instruction, and to his aptitude in governing young men attending such a seminary as tnat of the Normal School, I cannot speak in terms high enough in his praise. He is a gentleman in every sense or the word, and would do honour to the Ic stitution of Edinburgh. And in promo- ting Mr. Rae to the Rectorship of the Normal School, the Directors would, I am oonvinoec, be doing an act of which they would never repent ; but on the eontraiT, I am sure Mr. Rae, by his suavity of mt.nnet, by his Uhriatian deport- ment,, irappointed Rector, would justify their choice, and not only maintain the ■chool in it* present eflloienoy, but by his well-known energy, raise it if possible still hi j^er a» a model school for the whole of Scotland. R. J. JOHNSTONE. 11 Prom the Rer. Andrew WilaoB) A. M.y Head Maater of John Watson' i Imtitvtion, Edininirgh. John Watson's Institution, Edinburgh, Fib. 7, 1853. Mr. John E. Rae became known to me some years ago as a candidate for the •itoation of Teacher of Enelisb in the Banff Academy. On that occasion, I had, along with several neighboring clergymen, been requested by the Magis> tratM ot Banff to assist them in the selection of a saitable person. According- ly, we read Mr. Rae's testimonials, which appeared to us highly satisfactory ; we heard him examine a class, which he did in such a manner as to impress ua with a very high opinion of his aptitude to teach, and of his acquaintance with the best methods of tuition ; and we prescribed to him as a subject for an- alysis and illustration, a very difficult passage in "Paradise Lost," an exercise in which he exhibited a most intimate acquaintance with English Literature, and a most accurate knowledge of the grammatical structure and peculiaritiea of the English language. We felt no difficulty, therefore, in recommending him to the Magistrates of Banff as one whose services they would be fortunate in securing, fhad repeated opportunities of visiting the Academy, and of see- ing Mr. Rae teaching during the twelve months immediately succeeding his appointment at Banff; and at everv successive visit I was more and more con* nnced that he was an instructor of the very highest order. His gentlemanly bearing, his kind and cheerful, yet firm and energetic manner, his copiousness and felicity of illustration, the skill with which he seized upon the leading ideas in the lesson, and impressed them upon his pupils, and above all, the high meral and religious aims which he seemed ever to have in view, confirmwi, and more than confirmed, the verj high expectations which, on the grounds already mentioned, I had been led to form or Mr. Rae. Nor was I singular in ny opinion ; I state only what was the general feeling of the inhabitants of Banff, and what I know it continues to be up to the present moment. I may state in addition, that Mr. Rae is now one of my most intimate friends, and that, having had ample opportunities of forming my opinion of him, I believe that his abilities, attainments, character, and manners, fit him in no ordinary degree for the very important office to which he aspires. ANDREW WILSON. From Charles B. Smith) Es^.f Clauieal Matter, Montrot« Academy. Tai AoiDBifT, MoNTBOSS, FsB. 7, 1863. Mr. John E. Rae has been long and intimately known to me, and I therefore feel perfect confidence in expressing an opinion of his fitness for the Rectorship of the Normal School. From evidtaoe which I have no doubt will now be supplied by Mr. Rae, it will be seen how oomp^hensive and complete has been bis scholastic and acad- emic training. Jk vigarous mind and studious habits have enabled him to reap the full advanWge ofnis invaluable opportunities, so that he is now possessed nf asoholarship and attainments rarelv found united in a single individual, and still more rarely, though greatly needed, in one devoted to the scholastic pro- fession. Mr. Rae has had, moreover, ample and varied experience as a Teacher, and has always proved himself eminently eflbctive and successful. I should not nt- gleet to state, that Mr. Rae manifests on all occasions the habits and demeanor of a gentleman. As an aooomplished Scholar, » skilfnl Teacher, and a Christian gentleman, Mr. Rae's claims are, I think, entitled to the peculiarly &vorable regard of the Direeton of the Normti School. CHARLES B. SMITH. • i -. f 12 From John MacMUlan, Esq*) A.9I.) F.8* A.*, Scot., One of the Masters of the Ei^h School, Edinburgh. High School, Edinbcroh, 1st Jancart, lPi9. To the Patrons of the Dumfries Academy. Oentlembn, — In consequence of the lamented death of Mr. James Orierson' » vacancT has, I perceive, been made in the English department of your Aca* dem^, which it behoves you as patrons of the seminary efficiently to supply- Havmg (as is known to most of you) for many pears had the honor to presiae over a very important department in the Dumfries Academy, it will not, I am sure, be matter of surprise to any one, that I should now, as I have always done, take a deep interest in its affairs, and be sensibly alive to the character, both moral and professional, of those who aspire to fill the office of teacher in any of its departments. You will, no doubt, nave numerous applicants for the situation, man V of them, it may be, well fitted to perform the r, I find no statement in it wnich I would wish either to retract or to mod- ify. I still adhere to all that I then certified of him. Although I have had but little personal intercourse with Mr. Rae since 1849, from his having, during the greater portion of the interval, been professionally employed in a distant county town, yet it consists with my knowledge, that, for upwards of two years, he discharged most efficiently and well all the duties o'^the English department in the / > vdcmy of Banff. I feel very confident, then, that from his varied attainments, his long ex- perience in teaching, and his other qualifications, both natural and acquired, Mr. Rae would, in the event of his appointment, prove a very suitable person to fill the office of Head Master of the Normal Seminary in connection with the Church of Scotland, for which, it seems, he is at present a Candidate. JOHN MACMILLAN, M.A. From George FergnsoDy Esq., A.M. Ibrmerlyone of the Masters qf the Edinburgh Academy, now Professor of Eu- manity, King's (JoUege, Aberdeen. Kino's Colligi, Abbhdbkn, 80th Dbcbmbbr, 1848. I have much pleasure in expressing the high opinion which I entertain of Mr. John E. Rao as a public teacher. During a considerable portion of the time when ho acted as assistant to Dr. Reid in the Circus Place School, Edin- 13 bargb, two of my daughters Bttended his dau, and I had thereby a good op- portunit^ of formine an estimate of his attainments, and of his powers of com- municating knowledge. Besides this, my intimacy with Dr. Reid furnished me with the means of ascertaining the sentiments of one of the most successful teachers in Scotland ; and I have often heard that gentleman express liis un- qualified approval of Mr. Rae's skill, judgment, energy, and success in the man- agement of his classes. Mr. Rae has thus been placed in the most favorable circumstances for obtaining a knowledge of his profession, and of acquiring that experience which is of great value to a man placed at the head of any de- partment in a public seminary. He has also the advantage of being a good classical scholar, and of having it in his power to bring a minute knowledge v'>f the ancient languages to bear upon the illustration of his vernacular tongue. From kny own experience, therefore, and from the testimony ofUr. Reid, I eonsider myself justified in recommending Mr. Rae to the patrons of the Dum- fries Academv, as a young man, who, if elected by them to the English depart- ment, will fully maintain the well-merited celebrity of the seminary over wnich they preside. Kino's Collbob, Abbrdbbn, Feb. 7, as written, Mr. Rae has had an opp( 1858. Since the preceding certificate was written, Mr. Rae has had an opportunity of proving that he possesses the talents, attainments, and skill which are ne- cessary for conducting with success a public seminary ; and I have observed his progress with much interest. I have good reason to know that, as English master m the Banff Academv, his services were very highly appreciated ; that his classes were taught with great spirit, energy, and efficiency ; and that his resignation was much regretted by the community. Though I have already expressed a favourable opinion of two of the candi- dates fur the Kectorshin of the Normal Institution, I consider it due to Mr. Rae to state, that I believe nim to be, in every respect, well qualified for the duties of the office to which he aspires. GEORGE FERGUSON. From the Rev. Allan M 'Nanghton, D.D., Miniater of First Charge, Ltamahagow. MaITSB or LbSM ABAOOW, 20th January, 1855. I have known Mr. John E. Rae, Preacher of the (}ospel, for several ^ears ; and in mv occasional intercourse with him, have been much struck with the vigor and activity of his intellect, and tho wide range of his information, not only on professional subjects, but in science, philosophy and general literature. He preached in my pulpit a few months ag >, when ne afforded me most grati- * ing proofs of his ability to turn his extensive acquirements to the best account. % he subject on which he preached was a difficult one, on which I have read and heard very unsatisfactory discourses, and which no man could discuss well without much judgment and nice discrimination. Mr. RaeVi discourse would have graced an Academical Chair. It was elegantly classical in diction, lumi- nous in arrangement, and eloquent in illustration. Its structare was at the ■ame time so popular audits elocution so vigorous and impresive, thatlhtm its commencement to its close it commanded the full attention of a large and very mixed rural congregation. I therefore fervently tr^-'t that Mr. Rea will ■oon be called to some appointment in the Church which ;vill afford proper •cope for talenta so well calculated fur extensive usefulness. ALLAN M'NAUGHTON. .1 1 ■•! ):■ J ■'I ij i 14 FroM the Rev. Peter MacMorUuii, 3r»m»ter qf St. Luke\ Edinburgh. Edinbubgh, 12th AvonsT, 1854. I have much pleasure in complying with the reouest of Mr. John E. Rae, Preacher of the Qospel, to give him a Testimonial. My acquaintance with him baa been onlj of short duration, but I have had an opportunity of hearing him preach in St. Luke's, when he kindly agreed to assist me. Bfia discourse was food and full of promise, effect being given to it by his superior elocution, and is whole manner was impressive and becoming. I may mention that I thought the devotional part of the service very well oondvcted. fVom his high charnoter as a private teacher in Edinburgh, and all that I have heard of him, I cherish the hope that he will make a asefal ani eficient Minister in any aphere where he may be settled. PETER MAGUORLAND. From, the Rev. W. II> Grayy Jlmitter of Lady Fetter's, Edinburgh. 28 MiNTO Stkbbt, March 14, 1855. The Rev. John E. Rae became known to me about two years aso, as a Theo* logical Student. I had the pleasure of conducting his presbyterial examination previous to his entering the Divinity Hall for the last year of his course. His appearance on that occasion was highly gratifying, and his talents and acquirements were shown to be of a high order. Mr. Rae has preached in my church, to the great satisfaction of my congregation. I was myself a hearer, and was ver^ much pleased indeed with the matter of the dis- course, the manner of its delivery, and the way in which the devotional exer- cises were conducted. I can have no hesitation, therefore^ in recommending Mr. Rae as a Preacher likely to be very popular and useful in his ministrations, in any parish to which he may be appointed. WILLIAM H. GRAY. From the Rev. George H. Monilawiy Minitter qf Peebk*. PiiBLis Mahsi, 4th March, 1855. I have known the Rev. John E. Rae, Preacher of the Oospel, for some time- He is possessed of varied and extensive acquirements in literature and science- His personal piety, and devotedneaa to the important duties of his professirn, •re equally undoubted. He officiated for me in the Parish Church of Peebles, when I was confirmed in my previous estimate of his character, by the excel- lence of his public ministrations. Wherever his sphere as a Minister of Christ may be, he will prove a workman that needeth not to be ashamed. Mr. Rae poMesses, in a great degree, the power of presenting Divine truth in such a nanner as to instruct and impress all classes of his audience. His manners are thofe of a Christian gentleman, and his active habits must go fiur to ensure the practical discharge or all his duties. GEOROE H. MONILAWS. From the Rer. William Fiatilary Minitttr (^ Stirling. Mahob 15, 1865. I certify that I am acquainted with Mr. John E. Rae, Preacher of the Gospeh •nd that I have had the pleasure of hearing him preach, much to the satisne* (ion and edification of my congregation. Hia mind appears to me to b« wellitored 15 with tbeologiml ftnd general knowledge, acquired br long and diligent stndj, and extensive and earefkil reading. Aa a preacher, his discourses are perspic- aousl^ and judiciouslv arranged, neatly composed, decidedly evangulical in doctrine, and practical in their tendency. His manner is erare and becoming, and bis voice full and commanding. I regard Mr. Roe, from his talents and acquirements, his amiable disposition, ana upright conduct, as one who affords ^reiy promise of becoming a most efficient and useful Minister of the Gospel. WILLIAM FINDLAY. Fr i the ReT. David Smith, Minuter of TUlicevUry. TlLLCOITLTRT HaNSI, March U, 1866. I hare had the pleasure of being acquainted with tl- j Rev. John B. Rae from his early boyhood. He is possessed of excellent natural talents, which he has cultivated with assiduous care, and the result is, that in point of thorough edu- •ation, literary and theological attainments, and general information on all subjects expected in a clergyman, he has, I apprehend, not many superiors. He has paid a good deal of attention to the structure of the English language and Bnglish composition. His style is consequently very .orrect and elegant, while his elocution is superior to that of m jst of our young preachers. While tracing with much satisfaction his onward progress in life, and hearing of the flattering accounts of his general intelligence, as well as devotedness to the pursuits in which he has for some ^ears been engaged, I had not till comparatively recent- ly an opportunity of seeing so much ofhim as in his earlier years. I am glad tosay. nowever, that the early promise he gave seems fully realised in ma- torer life. I have had pleasant intercourse with him in private, &nd his preach- ing seemed much appreciated by my people. I can with perfect confidence noommend Mr. Rae ; and I have no doubt, tiotb flrom his superior talents and exteuire acquirements, his intimate acquaintance with the best mode of man- aging the business of a parish, and the interest he naturally takes in the young, and &om his energy, activity, and perseverance, as well as excellent moral sharacter. he will reuin all 1 have said in his favour. DAVID SMITH. From the Rev. Andrew Bell) D.D.y Minuter of Linlithgow. LiNLiTHaow Mansb, 14th March, 1855. I had lately the pleasure of making^ the acquaintance of the Rev. John E. Rae, Preacher of the Cbspel, when he was so obliging as to come and officiate for me here while I was myself indisposed. It was not my good fortune to hear him preach, but the concurrent testimony of many of my congregation, on whose Jodgment I can rely, has satisfied ne that he is a sound, able, effective, and popular preacher of the Word : and I beg to add, that the conversation I had with him during the two days he spent with me, have led me to the con- clusion, that, as regards both tone of mind, information, and manner, he ia •minently well qualified ibrdiaohaiging the duties of a Parish Minister. ANDREW BELL, D.D, From the Bev. David BrowB, Minister qfSt. Bernard^* Parish, EdMmrgh, Edimbcbob, MaKOBT IT, 1865. ItjKives me ([reat pleasure to Join my testimony to that of others in favor of the Rev. John £. Rae, who waalatelv licensed by the Presbytery of Edinburgh. With an intellect of • high ordrr, be has had opportanitiei for improving it k .J1 1i p i Si : : I i: I': 18 aboTe those of most young men, and of these he has made an exuelleut ase. In addition to his professional attainments, he has made himself extensivelr coif ▼ersant with literature, and with several branches of science ; and, besides the other advantages of these accomplishments, he is thus enabled to throw a greater interest than ordinary into nis illustrations of Scripture truth. He hat preached twice in my church, and although I was absent on both occasions. I am happy to sar that his preaching was highly appreciated by all classes of uw congregation. It was described to me b^ those whose opinion I value, as being strictly evangelical, giving abundant evidence that the preacher thinks out the subject for himself, as bemg eminently practical, and equally characterised by elegance and simplicity, while the debvery is such as completely to sustun the attention of the audience. This account is no more than I would have been prepared to expect from Mr. Rae from my personal acquaintance with him. In private intercourse I have always found him frank, kindly, and aflfectionate. I am confident that, under God's blessing, he will be a most useful and accept- able Minister of the Gospel. With his many and various resources, his prao- tical turn of mind, and his warmth and earnestness, I expect to hear most fa> Tourably of his ministry wherever, in Divine Providence, he may be called to labour. DAVID BROWN. From the Rev. William Glover, D.D.y Miniater of Greemiie Faruh, Edinburgh. Edinburgh, 19th March, 1866. I have much pleasure in certifying that I have for several years been well ac* quainted with Mr John i- . Rae, Preacher of the Gospel, and that I have been been led to form a very favourable opinion indeed of his character, qualiflca- tions, and attainments. His natural powers, which are of a sup<>rior order, have been cultivated with great diligence and success. As the result of having been zealouslv engaged in the culture of other minds, his own acquirements in literature and general knowledge are exact, varied, and extensive : and on the most important of all subjects, his views appear to me at once clear, consist- ent, and evangelical. I can also with great pleasure bear testimony to his ex- cellent character, and his most consistent and exemplary deportment ; and though I have not yet had the pleasure of hearing him preach, yet, from all that I know of his sterling integrity, his unaffected piety, his kindliness of disp(^ sition, and his habits of unwearied activity, I cherish the confident assurance, that when called to the sacred office, he will not disappoint the expectations of those who know him, but will prove, by the Divine blessing, an able, and faith- All, and successful Minister of the Gospel. u WILLIAM QLOVEB, D.D. ,1 • '- •) J '■"■■rii •1 :i .i;-iil ,f, / ., '.'.1. ■. ,•-'>».